NFL Rumors: Former Jaguars OT set to command massive $17 million contract

The Jacksonville Jaguars may lose a key piece of their offense in free agency this off-season. Jawaan Taylor is one of, if not the best, offensive tackles set to hit free agency. He played over 1,000 snaps last season and allowed just five sacks.

While the team wishes to get a long-term deal done with the star tackle, they know they might not be able to retain him. He is set to receive a contract north of $17 million per year.

ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler reported that Taylor will have a strong market with many tackle-needy teams ready to break the bank on the pending free agent.

He was the Jags' second-round pick in the 2019 NFL draft and has started 66 career games with the team since his rookie season.

The Jaguars want to keep Jawaan Taylor but may have a hard time retaining him

Jawaan Taylor

The Jaguars' top two free agents this off-season are tight end Evan Engram and offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor.

After a career season with the Jaguars in his first season with them, the team has made him their top priority this off-season.

The Jaguars have three days left to use the franchise tag and they are expected to use it on Engram.

He set career highs in receptions (73), yards (766), while adding four touchdowns.

The team will use about $11.3 million towards the cap this season by tagging Engram. If they were to use it on Taylor, it would be a $18.2 million hit.

The Jags currently have $16 million in cap space and will add about $13 million more when they cut Shaquille Griffin who’s expected to be released.

Once they tag Engram, they’ll have about $18 million left in cap space for the season, but they'll have to save money to sign other free agents and draft picks for the season.

While the Jags will try to keep Taylor, it is likely he will make more money in free agency. Also, he’ll have a strong market as he’s touted to be the best offensive tackle to be on the open market.